Office collections for departing colleagues are being given a twenty-first century makeover by Viing.

Viing co-founder Chris Makris told Pen To Paper that the solution was borne out of realworld frustrations.

Instead of having to pass around (track and chase) a card and envelope for contributions, Viing lets you set up a page online and share the link with colleagues who can leave a message for the recipient and put money into a virtual pot.

Sums collected can be transferred directly into the recipient’s bank account or used to buy a gift voucher.

Viing co-founder Chris Makris told Pen To Paper that the solution was borne out of realworld frustrations. “Our co-founder Elle worked in an office and became increasingly frustrated with the time-consuming nature of arranging a card and gift for her colleagues. Having searched the Internet for a better solution and having no luck, she set out to create her own solution. She formed a team with fellow co-founders, Yianni and Chris, and launched Viing in early September 2015.”

The service, which can be used for other occasions such as birthdays and maternity leave, is free for the organiser and for contributors. Viing makes its money through mark-ups on the greeting cards – all designed in-house – and from commission received from gift voucher suppliers.

“At the moment Viing offers Amazon vouchers directly,” explained Makris. “However, we are currently in the process of signing more suppliers onto our platform. Viing also offers users the option of a same day bank transfer at no additional cost, giving users complete flexibility.”